SORIA, Kent Emmanuel C.

SY, Wayne Jasper

Basalt Fiber
Brief Description:
- Basalt is a ceramic material that is primarily composed of magnesium oxide (MgO) and
calcium oxide (CaO).
Properties:
- It is a type of ceramic that is mechanically stronger than a normal fiber glass.

Applications:
- Basalt is mostly used in structural works, but one of its most common applications is the
basalt fiber. Basalt fiber is used similarly as glass fibers due to their similar properties.
However, basalt fibers are more favored because of its stronger mechanical property. It
is considered as a suitable reinforcement material and a great substitute for the old fiber
glass, which is less efficient and more costly.

Gypsum
Brief Description:
-Gypsum (CaSO. 4· 2H2O) is a mineral most commonly found in layered sedimentary
deposits.

Properties:
-It has a Mohs scale value of 2.

Applications:
-It is most commonly used in chalkboard, plaster and is a component of portland cement.
- In the Philippines, it is mined from many areas such as Zambales, Benguet province,
Negros and Davao region.

Rattan Fiber
Bried description:
-Rattan is a liana belonging to the subfamily Calamoideae.

Properties:
Most rattans have stems 2–5 cm diameter. Rattan stems cannot stand on their own.

Applications:
- Rattan is used in many activities such as basketry, matting and binding.
- It is also used for plant containers, and decorative works
Narra Wood
Brief Description:
- Narra is a type of wood that is abundant in Africa and Southeast Asia.

Properties:
- Narra is a type of natural wood composite that is resistant to weathering decay.

Applications:
- It is often used in making furnitures, building structures and boats.
- A disadvantage of using narra is the possible threat on forests where it can cause
severe deforestation if the process of acquiring the raw materials are done irresponsibly.